Cafe 2825 Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Atlantic City, NJ

Cafe 2825 : Restaurant Highlights

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Cafe 2825 in Atlantic City is a beloved, family-owned Italian restaurant renowned for its tableside theatrics, house-made specialties, and intimate, old-world charm—making it a standout destination for fine dining on the Jersey Shore.

🏛️ History & Vision

Founded in 1986 by Joe and Ginny Lautato, Cafe 2825 has remained a family-run gem for nearly four decades. Their vision was simple yet ambitious: bring the warmth of a Brooklyn Italian-American kitchen to Atlantic City, with a focus on authenticity, hospitality, and culinary theater. Today, their son Larry Lautato continues the tradition, often greeting guests personally and overseeing the dining room with a mix of charm and precision.

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🍝 Cuisine & Signature Dishes

Cafe 2825 specializes in Southern Italian cuisine with strong Sicilian roots and influences from Piedmont. The menu is crafted from scratch, using premium ingredients, many of which are imported directly from Italy. While not strictly farm-to-table or organic, the emphasis on freshness and quality is unmistakable.

Signature dishes include:

• Tableside Caesar Salad: prepared with flair in a wooden bowl, anchovy-forward and perfectly balanced
• Fresh Mozzarella or Burrata: hand-pulled tableside, a must-try for first-timers
• Cacio e Pepe: tossed in a wheel of Pecorino Romano at your table
• Veal Chop Bolognese Fra Diavolo and Seafood Risotto: praised for bold flavors and generous portions

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👨‍The Culinary Team

While Cafe 2825 doesn’t spotlight a celebrity chef, its culinary leadership is deeply rooted in family tradition and hands-on expertise. The kitchen team is known for precision, consistency, and theatrical presentation. Chef Joaquin Santiago, often seen tableside, brings a flair for performance and a deep respect for Italian culinary heritage.

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✨ Ambiance

The ambiance is intimate and elegant, evoking a New York City supper club with the warmth of a grandmother’s dining room. Expect:

• White tablecloths, soft lighting, and classic Italian décor
• Moderate noise levels, peaking during prime hours
• No outdoor dining, but the cozy interior more than compensates
• Upscale casual dress code: no beachwear, tank tops, or graphic tees

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🤝 Service

Service is a standout feature. Staf are consistently:

• Warm, knowledgeable
• Owner and chef interactions
• Attentive pacing and personalized recommendations

The front-of-house team, led by Larry Lautato, ensures a seamless experience from reservation to dessert.

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🍷 Other Considerations

• Alcohol: Full bar with a curated wine list
• Child-friendly: Best suited for older children or special occasions
• Parking: Free self-parking on Brighton Ave (avoid adjacent lot to prevent towing)
• Recommended For: Romantic dinners, foodies, special occasions, and anyone craving a true taste of Southern Italy.
  Not Ideal For: Large groups without reservations, casual beachgoers, or those seeking quick bites.
• Holiday Hours: Closed Sundays and Mondays; holiday availability varies by season—call ahead for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day reservations

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👍 What Guests Love

• Tableside experiences that feel like dinner and a show
• Authentic, bold Italian flavors
• Personalized service and family-run charm

👎 What Could Improve

• Limited seating—reservations are essential
• No online reservations—must call ahead
• No outdoor seating may deter some in warmer months

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🌟 What Sets Cafe 2825 Apart

Cafe 2825 isn’t just a meal—it’s a culinary performance. From the moment you walk in, you’re treated like family. The tableside artistry, heritage-driven menu, and unwavering hospitality make it one of Atlantic City’s most memorable dining experiences.

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(updated: October 2025)

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